Pregnancy brings with it a slew of changes that can affect everything  even your hair.There are a couple of things to keep in mind when it comes to washing and drying your hair during pregnancy. First and foremost, be careful! Being all belly and all thumbs may make simple moves a tad more challenging and potentially dangerous if you lose your balance. Keep that in mind and take it slow.  Also factor in the potential for postural hypo tension  the drop in blood pressure and dizziness that can result when you bend over and get up quickly.
One more thing. You’re one hot mama right now, so don’t make yourself even hotter by blasting your dryer on high with the bathroom door closed. Opt for the warm setting instead and leave the door open so cool air can circulate. That way you’ll avoid getting clammy or dizzy  and you might just reduce the frizz factor as well.

The straight and narrow. Many women find their hair texture changes while pregnant. Straight hair might get a bit of bounce or even full-fledged curls; curly hair might go straight. Enjoy the change while it lasts, and simply modify your hair-care routine during pregnancy — your hair is likely to return to its normal state after your baby is born.

In the thick of it. Many women find that their hair — along with their waistline — becomes thicker when they’re pregnant. Hair can get shinier too. (Better-looking hair can contribute to that “glow” some lucky women get when pregnant.) That’s because higher estrogen levels slow your hair’s shedding process, so hairs that would normally fall out stay on your scalp, thickening your locks.

The color conundrum. Talk to your doctor about coloring, perming, or relaxing your hair during pregnancy. Some docs prefer to have you wait until after the first trimester, or even hold off until after delivery, to avoid the possibility of having your baby exposed to the chemicals in utero. If you choose to treat your hair, make sure your stylist knows you’re expecting. He or she can keep contact between the chemicals and your scalp to a minimum. (Contact with your hair poses no risk.) You might also want to switch to highlights or lowlights during your pregnancy, since these treatments are less likely to touch your scalp.

The down side. After you deliver your baby, or after you stop breastfeeding, your estrogen levels will return to normal, and you may find your hair thinning as you shed the hair you held onto during pregnancy. After this first round of shedding, your hair will return to its normal growing and shedding cycle, at least until your next pregnancy.

Oily or dry? You might find changes in the moisture levels of your hair along with changes in its texture. If you’re lucky, your hair might move in the direction you want. But anything can happen — oily hair can get more oily, and dry hair can dry out even more. You’ll need to pay attention to the direction your hair is taking and possibly modify your shampooing and conditioning routine — or even change products.

If you opt for coloring, perming, or relaxing during your pregnancy, keep in mind that the fluctuating hormone levels may make your hair respond differently than it normally does. Talk to your stylist to see what he or she recommends at this stage.

Are you bored of your hair color? Do you want to revamp your look? If yes, then the easiest way to change your look would be to opt for hair coloring. A new hair color can add a new dimension to your personality, making you look more confident and impressive. However, with the need to be in sync with the competition around, people are left with little or no time to flock to the salon.

 Nonetheless, when time or money doesn’t allow you the pampering of salon color, you’ll find that at home hair coloring preparations are both affordable and easy to use. Here are some handy tips that will make your hair look healthier and glow with the desired color and give you salon-like results, along with quick and easy solutions to common problems related with coloring your hair.When time or money doesn’t allow you the pampering of salon color, you’ll find that at home hair coloring preparations are both affordable and easy to use.

Be prepared.

1. Start healthy: Deep condition your hair. Then wait a couple of days after shampooing to give the natural oils in your scalp time to resurface. They’ll help protect your skin from chemical reactions, help your hair color to set better, and give you more uniform results overall.
2. Put your toolkit together. Wear an old t-shirt and gather up some older towels and washcloths that you won’t miss if they get stained. Include some hair clips for sectioning your hair, have a timer handy and find a hand mirror so that you can see the back of your head.
3. While you wait, take some time to getting to know the density of your hair. Practice sectioning before you have to handle your hair in one hand and an applicator bottle in the other!

Give a natural boost to hair color – go organic!
Hair Color Espresso – Perk up black or brown hair with a strong cup of dark grind coffee or espresso. Brew, cool and add it to your dry hair. Shampoo after 30 minutes.

Nuts about Hair Color – Add sparkle to dark hair with walnuts. Boil one cup of chopped walnuts with one cup of water. Cool, strain, and pour it on! Shampoo after 30 minutes.

Hair Color to a Tea – To add highlights to dark hair, brew a cup of strong dark tea and use it as a final rinse after shampooing.

Spray or comb a cup of strong chamomile tea into blond or light brown hair. Leave on for twenty minutes, shampoo and rinse.

Put Some Punch in Your Hair Color with Fruit Juices – Of course, you probably know that lemon juice lightens, but did you know that using ½ cup of cranberry juice as a final rinse will give a lift to red hair and add subtle red highlights to dark hair?

* Even when coloring hair with these organics, always remember the color wheel. When coloring hair, opposites don’t attract – they neutralize each other.

Special Hair Coloring Tips for Long Hair, Gray Hair, Natural Curls and Waves
Long hair: Four hands are better than two when coloring long hair. Get a friend to help you with at home hair color.

The ends of long hair are more porous than the rest of the hair shaft. In addition, because your body’s natural heat works to speed up the process of hair coloring, start color application in the mid-lengths of long hair and work the color up to the roots and down to ends.

If your hair is thick as well as long, because of process time, it may be best to color it in sections.

Natural curls and waves: Experts generally advise against using permanent hair color on naturally curly or wavy hair. Any type of chemical treatment can impact natural curly or wavy hair. If your hair is already dry because of straightening or relaxing, the addition of more chemicals can result in worse damage. In addition, semi-permanent colors give you richer color that won’t fade like permanent color does.

Gray Hair: Hair turns gray or white when the hair shafts lose pigment. These shafts tend to be coarser and less porous, making it more difficult to set hair color. Before coloring, soften gray hair with a special softening shampoo or developer. Choose a color at least one shade darker than your expected result. Keep the hair color on your hair for at least 35 minutes.

Healthy Hair – Hair Coloring Tips
Shampoo that’s made for color treated hair keeps your hair color soft and natural looking. Regular shampoos can strip color and natural moisture from your hair.

Install a water filter for your shower or bath. Besides frequently being treated with chemicals, tap water coming through old plumbing contains undesirable elements like rust that leave your new hair color flat and dull looking.

Deep condition regularly – at least every two weeks – to restore moisture and shine to color treated hair. As roots grow out, a color enhancing conditioner will help your natural hair color blend with your color treated hair.

After shampooing, always blot your hair dry. Don’t rub hair dry or wrap it in a tight turban. When using a blow dryer, dry your head– not your hair. Over drying hair strips it of moisture and also results in static.

Never use a brush on wet hair. Work through tangles with a wide tooth comb, starting with the ends and moving to your scalp.

For those of you, who are coloring for the first time, start at the crown or at the nape of the neck. This because it is here that the natural hair color is darkest.

For the ends, apply hair color that is one level darker, without adding the developer. The color at the ends of the hair tends to fade faster than the rest, because the ends are porous and does not hold color.

Once you have applied the color, use a timer to keep track of the time. Often while reading a magazine, we completely forget to keep a track of the time. So, a time would be beneficial in this case.

After the specified time is over, rinse your hair thoroughly. Rinse, until the water runs clear.

Conditioners that you leave in your hair often contain sunscreen and help protect your hair color from fading.

Wetting your hair with bottled spring water helps to shield it from the harsh swimming pool chemicals.

Shampoo your hair properly and then condition them. Thereafter, wait for two days, to give the natural oils in your scalp time to resurface. This is an essential step to protect the scalp from chemical reactions and also would help your hair color to set better, giving you uniformed results overall.

On the day of hair color, you need to first arrange the toolkit for the hair coloring purpose. Put on an old t-shirt and collect some older towels and washcloths. Get some hair clips for sectioning your hair, a handy timer and a hand mirror, which will enable you to view the back of your head.

Section your hair so that you can handle you hair better, during the coloring process.

Before starting, make sure you read the instructions at least two times. Each of the coloring brands follows a definite style or process, so if you don’t want to do a blunder, ensure that you read the instruction. Also, do not forget the strand test.

Put on the gloves and start the coloring process. If you are touching up the roots, be sure that this is the area that you target. You shouldn’t be applying the color to the entire head as in the first application.

Make sure to condition your hair properly. After the coloring process, hair becomes very vulnerable to damage.

• Always color your hair, when they are fully dry because color of damp and wet hair may get diluted later.
• If your current hair color is darker than the next shade chosen, use a color remover to completely lose the old tint. However, they are effective on only artificial colors and not natural hair color.
• For gray hair, use a shade darker than the shade of color used on the rest of the hair.
• After coloring your hair, do not perm or straighten for several weeks.
• If you go out in the sun or swim regularly, your hair color may wear off quickly. To avoid this, condition your hair regularly to negate the effects of summer heat and water.
• If light-reddish blonde tones fade to orange color, you can use a little red-gold accent to give fashionable highlights.

Oily or greasy hair, a thin oil is used, and frequent washing and good shampoo we also need to be aggressive on the amount of hair, and perm and hair roots and in the light of excess sebum to reduce the spread , And fresh and in an effort six to eight glasses of water a day to drink a lot of food to eat a healthy change and do more with less time to wash your hair in the scalp to encourage Trying to diet. Use oil-free shampoo every three days, and to avoid excessive brushing or combing.Hair that develops a lank, flat, stringy or oily appearance is often referred to by hairdressers and hair consumers as “greasy” hair.  This type of hair is hard to control, clumps together easily and does not hold a style well. 

Where does greasy hair originate from?  Regardless of how or why it happens, greasy hair is directly related to the overproduction of sebum, a waxy type of substance naturally occurring in the body which is designed to keep hair supple, soft and waterproof.  Sebum is produced by the sebaceous glands. The amount of greasiness that is experienced is directly tied to the amount of oil present on the scalp.  People with fine hair tend to have more hair than people with other hair textures.  Since there is a higher volume of hair associated with fine textures, there are more sebaceous glands and thus potential for excessive oil production.

Hormonal changes is also sometimes linked to the development of greasy hair and skin issues.  This is more likely during puberty than menopause.

It is believed by some hair experts that chronic greasy hair can lead to other long term hair problems including potential hair loss or some forms of scalp breakouts and/or greasy dandruff.

Types Of Greasy Hair

Greasy hair can also be a linked to the development of skin problems including acne on the face and scalp.

It can be generally categorized into two types which include:

1.  Greasy hair from roots to ends with greasy or oily scalp.
2.  Greasy scalp and roots with dry hair from below roots to the ends.

Causes Of Greasy Hair

Although there are always special circumstances, greasy hair can be caused by the following:

1.  Genetic predisposition towards greasy, oily scalp that migrates through the hair. 
2.  Normal hair without genetic predisposition towards greasiness that is treated with improper hair care products which cause oily/greasy scalp with or without oily/greasy strands.
3.  Lack of regular and consistent hair cleansing which results in the build-up of toxins, dirt and other substances resulting in greasy strands.

Greasy Hair Care Tips

How often should you wash greasy hair? There are recommendations that it is necessary to wash greasy hair every 4 or 5 days. There are also other recommendations to wash greasy hair every day. We advise you to wash your hair as often as it gets dirty. You should comb your hair with sparse comb touching your head skin gently (it is better to use horn comb because it absorbs grease perfectly).

What remedy should you use for washing greasy hair? Use shampoos for greasy hair only. Water temperature shouldn’t be hot (40-45C). In addition to shampoo, use folk remedies for greasy hair. For example, after washing your hair rinse it with tincture of nettle, plantain, and coltsfoot. Take one tablespoon of each herb and fill them up with 0.5 liters of boiling water. Let tincture draw for half an hour in a closed dish, and then filter it. Use a hair dryer as rarely as possible, it is better to let your hair dry naturally.

Masks for greasy hair. You can oil your hair with the composition of two parts of lemon juice and one part of carrot juice in an hour or two before washing your hair. But after washing you should rinse your hair with water of room temperature with lemon juice added into it (one tablespoon of lemon juice for two liters of water.)

Ashberry could help you to control hair greasiness. The ashberry decoction is prepared in such manner: fill up 1 tablespoon of berries with 2 glasses of boiling water and boil them for 10 minutes.

Bark of oak decoction may help to reduce hair greasiness. To prepare the decoction you should take three tablespoons of oak bark, and boiling them for 15 minutes in 1 liter of water. This decoction should be used after filtering as water for washing hair. You should use this decoction every five or seven days during two months for effective greasy hair control.

Here is the recipe of effective lotion

Fill up two tablespoons of linden flowers with 0.5 liters of boiling water and then simmer them for two or three minutes. Then cool and filter the decoction, add one tablespoon of vinegar or juice of one lemon, a quarter of a cup of calendula spirit decoction (eucalyptus or camphoric alcohol)

I would like to share with you some honey and skin care knowledge, one of the most popular topics amongst the female honey fans, before you spend hundreds or thousands of dollars on all those anti-wrinkle and moisturising creams. Try some easy, home-made tonic and remedy with honey first. And remember, the main ingredient in all those costly skin care products in the store could be honey! honey contains powerful antioxidants which fight free radicals and reverse aging.

Free radicals are everywhere – in the air we breathe, the food we eat, and even the sunlight we love so much. Every moment, the body absorbs oxygen and turns it into energy in a process called oxidation. This process also releases free radicals.Antioxidants slow down aging by neutralizing these free radicals. They perform healing at the deepest cellular level, allowing the benefits to manifest in a myriad of different ways.Honey’s natural antioxidant and anti-microbial properties help to protect the skin from the damage of the sun’s rays, supports the skin’s ability to rejuvenate and refresh depleted skin, leaving it feeling silky soft and supple. One of the most common skin benefits of honey is related to minor acne treatment. Honey absorbs impurities from the pores on the skin, making it an ideal cleansing agent. With the wide-ranging of honey and skin care recipes, it is no wonder that there exists a huge number of honey products in the market for hair care, baby care, skin care for sunscreen, hand lotions, facial scrubs and moisturizers. And for instance, the Manuka Honey Lip Balm is an effective and natural moisturiser. It contains sun protection properties to soothe and protect the lips from becoming dry and chapped in cold and dry weather

Honey is rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, which are wonderful beauty aids that nourish the skin.

Here are some do-it-yourself, self-help, extremely easy to follow recipes to enjoy the benefits of honey in skin care. I recommend them also because all the ingredients that go along with them are so easily accessible.

Facial cleansing scrub
Mix honey with ground almonds and scrub on face.

Cucumber-Honey Toner: Puree 1 cucumber in a blender and drain away the liquid. Add 2 teaspoons of honey and mix. Apply on the face and neck area with a cotton pad. Air dry it and rinse clean.

Firming mask
Whisk a tablespoon of honey together with an egg white, 1 teaspoon of glycerin and about 1/4 cup of flour. Smooth on the face, leave on 15 minutes, and rinse off with warm water. You will be pleased with the results.

Moisturizing pack
Mix 2 tablespoons of honey with 2 teaspoons of whole milk, smooth over the face and throat, and leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse off with warm water, and finish by splashing with cold water.

Honey-Oats Face Scrub: Combine 1 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon finely-ground almonds, 2 tablespoons dry oatmeal, and some lemon juice or yogurt to a luxurious and exfoliating facial scrub. Massage mixture gently onto face, then rinse with warm water.

Moisturizing lotion
Have dry patches of skin on hands, elbows, or other parts? Mix 1 teaspoon of honey with 1 teaspoon of olive oil and a 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice, then apply. Wash off after 15 minutes.

Lip balm
Honey works well on chapped lips and for acne because it has antibacterial properties.

Hot Honey Bath: Perhaps the easiest beauty recipe related to honey and skin care — Add 1/4 cup of honey to your hot bath water for silky and luscious skin.

Hair shine
Mix 1 teaspoon of honey into 4 cups of warm water. Use as a hair rinse. And if you’re a blond, add the juice of 1 lemon

White hair appearing on one’s head is usually an indication of the person getting older. However there are various other causes and reasons for people of any age to develop white hair on their heads. It is a fact that white hair developing on one’s head is an indication of age catching up, but when one’s hair begins to turn silver in color then this condition is directly thought to be related to one’s genes. In fact scientific research and various other studies that have been conducted have shown that medical conditions, heredity and various kinds of external stressors significantly affect the process of graying. Some of the main causes of white hair besides age could be attributed stress that one is facing in one’s life.

Each individual follicle of hair on one’s head has a certain amount of melanin or pigment. This pigment gets regulated by melanocytes which is a special stem. When melanocytes finishes or stops its functioning then the hair follicle that grows will now begin to grow out in an unpigmented state or a white state. Usually by the time one is around 50 years of age almost 50 percent of their hair will have turned white. African Americans and Asians hair turns gray or white later in life as compared to Caucasians. There are various medical conditions that can lead to one’s hair turning white prematurely. There are some people that are born with a condition called as vitiligo. They will have patches of hair that is unpigmented. There is no medical procedure which can cause one’s hair to grow back in its former color once it has turned white. However there are ways in which one can slow down the process of graying of hair. Some of these methods include one ridding or reducing the stress in one’s life. This can be done by taking up yoga, meditation or going for walks in open spaces. One should always remember to have a well balanced diet that is made up of plenty of leafy green vegetables, proteins found in lean meats and eggs. They should drink milk regularly and eat legumes and nuts. One should drink plenty of water and fruit juices besides eating plenty of fresh fruits regularly. Getting some exercise in on a regular basis is also good for overall health and well being.

When the roots of your hair stop producing melanin, your hair loses color and turns gray or white. Almost half of all Americans have some gray or white in their hair by the time they turn 40, but there are multiple reasons why hair goes gray — and a few things you can do that may help slow the process.

Genetics. Odds are, if your parents went gray early, you will too — some people start developing white hair as early as 10 years old. There is little to be done to stop the process, although scientists have tracked down the genes that come into play in hair graying, Bcl2 and Bcl-w.

Vitamin deficiencies. A lack of vitamin B12 could be a factor in premature gray or white hair, so consider taking a supplement to ensure this doesn’t cause your graying.

Thyroid problems. Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism (overproducing and underproducing thyroids) can cause premature graying. Often, if hair goes gray too early, doctors will order blood tests to see whether the thyroid is working properly.

Smoking. Some studies have found that smokers are more than four times as likely as nonsmokers to start graying early.

To dye or not to dye. If medical reasons for premature graying have been ruled out, consider whether you want to mask the gray by plucking or dyeing or opt to simply grow gray gracefully. (Plucking will not cause more white hairs to crop up, contrary to all those old wives’ tales.)

If you do decide to mask it, you can try one of the many commercial hair dyes available in an array of colors. If you’re uncomfortable using a chemical-based dye, try some of the natural dyes that use henna, which can be found in your local natural food store.

How to Prevent White Hair?

• Massage your scalp regularly for 10min. this will help in increasing the blood circulation of the scalp and thereafter apply almond or Gooseberry hair oil and apply in circular motion of your fingers.
• Diet is very important in prevention and treatment of this condition. Devitalizing and harmful foods such as soft drinks, sugar based substances, pastries, jam, jellies, white flour, spices and pickles and all things difficult for digestion.
• A diet rich in all nutritious substances are to be taken.

Home remedies and Natural Treatment for White and Grey Hair

• Gooseberries are one of the important components in treating white hair. The fruit is taken and cut to pieces. It should be dried in shade. Direct sunlight should be avoided. This dried pieces are heated in coconut oil till the matter turns into thick dark oil. This should be applied every day.
• Hair should be washed with a preparation made with dried Gooseberry soaked in water overnight. This preparation can also be used for massage.
• Butter prepared from cow’s milk is beneficial in prevention of premature white hair.
• Ribbed gourd can also be used in same way as Gooseberries. This is also as effective as Gooseberries.
• Taking sufficient amount of yoghurt daily and a tablespoon of yeast before meals is helpful in prevention and treatment of white hair.

How to Prevent White Hair?

• Massage your scalp regularly for 10min. this will help in increasing the blood circulation of the scalp and thereafter apply almond or Gooseberry hair oil and apply in circular motion of your fingers.
• Diet is very important in prevention and treatment of this condition. Devitalizing and harmful foods such as soft drinks, sugar based substances, pastries, jam, jellies, white flour, spices and pickles and all things difficult for digestion.
• A diet rich in all nutritious substances are to be taken.

Home remedies and Natural Treatment for White and Grey Hair

• Gooseberries are one of the important components in treating white hair. The fruit is taken and cut to pieces. It should be dried in shade. Direct sunlight should be avoided. This dried pieces are heated in coconut oil till the matter turns into thick dark oil. This should be applied every day.
• Hair should be washed with a preparation made with dried Gooseberry soaked in water overnight. This preparation can also be used for massage.
• Butter prepared from cow’s milk is beneficial in prevention of premature white hair.
• Ribbed gourd can also be used in same way as Gooseberries. This is also as effective as Gooseberries.
• Taking sufficient amount of yoghurt daily and a tablespoon of yeast before meals is helpful in prevention and treatment of white hair.

Hair loss is a problem that faces millions of people, including men, women and even children. The market for products that promise hair growth is vast, but many of these products are either excessively expensive or completely ineffectual. There is a natural remedy for hair loss that has existed for ages. Aloe vera has been used by many different cultures to stimulate hair growth, and it is safe, natural and affordable. Most people already know that Aloe Vera is a miraculous plant when it comes to treating burns. There are also many great Aloe Vera skin care products on the market, including Aloe Vera cosmetics.  The Aloe Vera plant is packed with some of same the vitamins and minerals which make up our own bodies. So much so that perhaps no other plant more closely matches the human body’s biochemistry. This helps makes Aloe Vera an excellent treatment for hair loss.  It’s no secret that Aloe Vera is good for your hair and scalp. Aloe Vera shampoos have been around for years. When it comes to hair, the fewer chemicals you expose your hair to, the better. Aloe Vera acts as a natural hair conditioner and can be used in place of chemical based conditioners.

 Aloe Vera is found in many shampoos and conditioners. It can be rubbed in and left for a bit of time and rinsed out and it will help make your hair healthier and keep those wonderful follicles producing hair. It can be used to lose stress as well. It helps the blood flow to the hair. You may already be using it in your brand named shampoo or conditioner and just don´t know it. This herb is a wonderful thing that can keep you from buying wigs or doing that super comb over we all love to look at. An Aloe Vera gel containing coconut milk with a small amount of wheat germ oil used as a shampoo can promote healthy hair and hair growth and maintenance. Aloe Vera conditioners contain the right amount of natural herbs and oils and with proper use help out your hair so much it is indescribable. Each one is pH balanced, prepared without alcohol, and petroleum based ingredients. Aloe Vera jojoba helps you to have healthier and shinier hair.

Hair Growth

In addition to halting hair loss, aloe vera is believed to promote the growth of new hair. Aloe vera balances PH levels and stimulates scalp enzymes, which in turn prompts hair growth. To gain this benefit, massage aloe vera into the scalp and leave in for 30 minutes before rinsing. Over time, the scalp will shed the dead hair follicles and new hair follicles will grow in their place.

Conditioner and Moisturizer

Aloe vera can replace traditional hair conditioners and make hair shinier. Massage 1/2 tsp. of aloe vera gel into wet hair, let it set for one minute and rinse as usual. Additionally, if you are using powdered hair dye, aloe vera gel can be mixed with the solution beforehand to combat the drying properties of the dye.

Hair Loss

Aloe vera has been heralded as a treatment for hair loss, due to many of the vitamins and minerals found within the plant mimicking the chemistry of the human body. In addition, chemicals can hasten hair loss, so eliminating hair products with harmful ingredients will allow damaged hair follicles to heal. For an at-home treatment, pour a small amount of an herbal shampoo into a bowl and add two times the amount of aloe vera gel (for best results, use a 100 percent stabilized aloe vera gel vs. the actual aloe vera plant.)

Dandruff

People who suffer from dandruff, which is characterized by a flaky, itchy scalp, should consider aloe vera for relief. Causes of dandruff include stress, diets high in sugar and low in fats, excessive blow drying and shampooing hair in hot water. Aloe vera gel straight from the leaves of the plant can be rubbed on the scalp, left in overnight and shampooed out the following morning.

Hair Recipes Using Aloe

Shampoo: You will need 1/4 cup of castile liquid soap, 1/4 cup of aloe vera gel, 1 tsp. of vegetable glycerin and 1/4 tsp. of light organic vegetable or olive oil. Keep in mind that the aloe vera gel you choose should be organic, and have few or no preservatives. With a whisk or a mixer, combine the ingredients in a large bowl. Use a funnel to transfer the shampoo into a plastic, capped bottle that can be kept in the shower. Shake the shampoo before using. After massaging it into your hair, let the shampoo sit for about two minutes before rinsing .

Another way to enjoy the moisturizing benefits of aloe vera is by adding a small amount of the gel to your regular shampoo. Shake the bottle to ensure the aloe has been properly mixed, then use regularly.

Hair Mask

Begin by microwaving 1 tbsp. of jojoba oil and 1 tbsp. of honey in a microwave-safe bowl for three to five minutes. Add 1 tbsp. of aloe vera gel, one egg and five drops each of sage and rosemary essential oils. Mix together with a whisk, then apply all over to damp hair. Make sure your hair is free from any styling products before using the mask .Also, the ingredients may be hot; test the temperature using a baking or meat thermometer before touching the mask with your fingers. Once the mask has been applied to your hair, place a plastic cap on your head and let the mixture sit for three hours before shampooing .If you don’t have a plastic cap, wrap Saran Wrap around your head. This mask will give your hair a beautiful shine.

Tips & Warnings

• You can purchase raw aloe vera plants at any nursery or garden center. Harvesting the aloe vera gel is as simple as breaking off one of the tendrils and cracking it open. The gel can be easily squeezed out.
• Wheat germ oil can be found at many different online retailers and at most natural foods stores. It is often used as cooking oil.
• If itching or skin irritation occur, discontinue use.

Hair is a keratinised protein that is part of the integumentary system. It grows out of hair follicles embedded deep in the dermis. There are three types of hair: terminal, villus and lanugo. Terminal hair is the fully developed, thick, coarse hair found on the head, underarms and pubic area of a human. Villus hair is the short, very fine hair that covers almost

every part of the human body except the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, back of the ears, certain external genital organs and the lips. Lanugo hair is the hair that covers a fetus, and is also sometimes found on anorexics to help their malnourished bodies retain heat. The only part of the hair that is alive is the root where new hair grows.

During the warm summer months, the human body has to work faster to perform some common activities and maintain homeostasis. It also has to work faster and harder to help the body cool down. This leads to faster cell division due to more efficient blood circulation throughout the body, which, among other things, causes hair to grow faster. Hair cells at the root divide much more quickly in the summer than during winter months and push the hair down more rapidly.

Hair Growth Factors

Hair grows an average of half an inch per month with growth being predetermined by a person’s genetic code. In a year, hair can grow up to 6 inches. As a person ages, hair growth can slow to about one-quarter inch per month. New hair cells form in the root as the hair cells divide, and push the hair forward, making it longer. The new hair is always added at the root as the older hair inches downward. Hair grows at the same rate on every part of the head.

Dandruff is the peeling of dead skin from your head at a rapid rate. Skin cells are often shed from the skin surface but they are too small to be visible. However, dandruff is shedding of skin cells from scalp in larger aggregates. Dandruff causes accumulation of toxins on the scalp and thus it could also lead to hair loss. Causes of dandruff are not known for sure. What is confirmed is that dandruff is not communicable. Merely using a comb used by person with heavy dandruff is not going to infect you.

Another myth is that dandruff formation is more in oily scalp. This is not true and removing oil from scalp does not decrease the formation of dandruff. Almost everyone has suffered from this problem one time or the other, to a certain extent. People who suffer from a higher degree of dandruff will experience itch on thescalp . If it is scratched causes further damage to it. Dandruff may be caused by a number of factors, chief among them being hormonal imbalance, excessive perspiration, allergic reactions, excessive stress, poor hygiene, poor nutrition/health and lack proper sleep. Extreme conditions of heat or cold can also cause dandruff. Though dandruff is known as the drying ofscalp, it is very common among people with oily hair.

Dandruff Symptoms

The scales from the scalp fall

When the hair is combed or brushed, or when the scalp is scratched, the scales from the scalp fall like snowflakes and settle on the eye brows, shoulders, and clothes. These scales sometimes appear as lumps or crusts on the scalp. Itching is there and scalp may become red Often there is itching as well and the scalp may become red from scratching.

Dandruff Causes

Impairment of general health, wrong food intake, constipation

The main causes of dandruff are impairment of general health, development of a toxic condition mainly due to taking of wrong foods, constipation, and a low vitality due to infectious diseases.Emotional tension, harsh shampoos, general exhaustion.Other factors contributing to this disorder are emotional tension, harsh shampoos, exposure to cold, and general exhaustion.
Dandruff treatment using Fenugreek Seeds

The use of fenugreek seeds is one of the most important remedies in the treatment of dandruff. Two tablespoons of these seeds should be soaked overnight in water and ground into a fine paste in the morning. This paste should be applied all over the scalp and left for half an hour. The hair should then be washed thoroughly with soap-nut (ritha) solution or acacia concinna.

Dandruff treatment using Lime

The use of a teaspoon of fresh lime juice for the last rinse, while washing the hair, is another useful remedy. This not only leaves the hair glowing but also removes stickiness and prevents dandruff.

Dandruff treatment using Green Gram Powder

A valuable prescription for removal of dandruff is the use of green gram powder. The hair should be washed twice a week with two tablespoons of this powder mixed with half a cup of curd.

Dandruff treatment using Beet

Beets have been found useful in dandruff. Both tops and roots should be boiled in water and this water should be massaged into the scalp with the finger tips every night. White beet is better for this purpose.

Dandruff treatment using Snake Gourd

The juice of snake gourd has been found beneficial in the prevention and treatment of dandruff. The juice should be rubbed over the scalp for this purpose.

Dandruff treatment using Other Remedies

Dandruff can be removed by massaging the hair for half an hour with curd which has been kept in the open for three days, or with a few drops of lime juice mixed with indian gooseberry juice every night, before going to bed. Another measure which helps to counteract dandruff is to dilute cider vinegar with an equal quantity of water and dab this on to the hair with cotton wool inbetween shampooing. Cider vinegar added to the final rinsing water after shampooing also helps to disperse dandruff.

Best way to rid yourself of dandruff is applying henna. You can mix henna powder, tea essence (black tea) lemon one spoon, curd (3 spoons) vinegar (1 spoon), olive oil (1 spoon), fenugreek powder (1 spoon)egg white, mix together and keep this mixture for the whole night and apply on the hair for the next day. You should start it from root of the hair to the tip of the hair. Leave it for 2-3 hours then wash it without shampoo. The next day wash it with shampoo. If u do this monthly twice. You may get rid of dandruff (u can add margosa and indian gooseberry powder also along with this content).. You have to wash the hair every two days once. Weekly thrice if u do the oil massage is another method to prevent dandruff.

1. If your problem is of milder nature, shampooing once a day or twice a day will definitely help in keeping it under control.
2. Begin with only milder shampoos only. Stronger shampoos can irritate your hair and make dandruff flaking worse.
3. If your regular shampoo is not helpful in getting rid of dandruff, go in for anti-dandruff shampoo and the situation will improve in a couple of weeks.
4. Finding the right shampoo for your hair could be a process of trial and error. Try out various shampoos and see which one works best for your hair. Even rotating shampoos often can be good for your hair.
5. Once you have discovered an anti-dandruff shampoo that is good for you, keep using it or your dandruff will return in no time.
6. While using anti-dandruff shampoos, lather and rinse twice. The first cycle cleans only your scalp and the second cleans scalp and hairs thoroughly.
7. Avoid using oil after shampooing as it considerably lowers the affect of shampoos.
8. If you have a feeling that your dandruff is a severe case of dandruff, it is better to have an appointment with a dermatologist.
9. Poor health or lack of proper diet can cause dandruff. Ensure to get enough sleep and eat safely.

Nutritious food is the most effective way of getting splendid hair. Glossy, healthy hair is an indication of a healthy body. The kind of nutrition that body needs is also required by hair. Nutritious food makes amazing difference to the growth and conditioning of hair.

Water constitutes a quarter of the weight of a strand of hair. Moisture makes the hair supple and you have to ensure that you take plenty of fluids. You must remember that in order to drink water, you need not wait till you get thirsty. If you are thirsty, it means that your body has already lost more water than it should have replenished and it is asking you to drink water. Water hydrates your body and also keeps your hair smooth and shining. The ideal intake is eight to ten glasses of water every day. 

Protein constitutes the building block of hair. Hence, a diet for healthy hair should consist of large quantities of protein. Protein gives strength to the hair shaft and reduces the likelihood of damage due to snapping and splitting of hair. Protein can be obtained from foods such as fish, meat, cereals, cheese and milk.

Among minerals, iron helps to carry oxygen to the hair. If enough iron is not available, hair and its follicles fall short of the oxygen. Iron level is increased by the intake of red meat and green vegetables or by iron supplements. Zinc improves hair protein, which prevents hair loss. Meat and seafood contain high levels of zinc. Copper is essential for the pigmentation of hair. Fresh vegetables, meat, nuts and seeds contain copper.

Vitamins are very essential for healthy hair. Vitamin A results in a healthy scalp and it is good for the skin. Vegetables contain vitamin A. Vitamins B and C are important for hair growth and hair color. They are available in fruit, vegetables, cereals, eggs, milk and bread. Other vitamins such as vitamin E, Biotin, Inositol, niacin ,Pantothenic acid, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12 are also quite important for the healthy growth of hair. The following tips will be useful:

1. Eat variety of foods
2. Avoid or limit the consumption of junk foods
3. Prefer natural and lightly processed foods as often as you can
4. Do not overcook
5. High-stress levels will reduce
6. Dieting may affect nutrient levels
7. Aging affects the ability of our bodies to utilize certain nutrients

Top foods that should be the foundation of your healthy hair diet

Salmon

When it comes to foods that pack a beauty punch, it’s hard to beat salmon. Loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, this high-quality protein source is also filled with vitamin B-12 and iron.

Dark Green Vegetables

Popeye the Sailor Man didn’t eat all that spinach for healthy hair, but he could have. Spinach, like broccoli and Swiss chard, is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which your body needs to produce sebum. The oily substance, secreted by your hair follicles, is the body’s natural hair conditioner.Dark green vegetables also provide iron and calcium.

Beans

Legumes like kidney beans and lentils should be an important part of your hair-care diet. Not only do they provide plentiful protein to promote hair growth, but ample iron, zinc, and biotin. While rare, biotin deficiencies can result in brittle hair.

Nuts

Brazil nuts are one of nature’s best sources of selenium, an important mineral for the health of your scalp. Walnuts contain alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid that may help condition your hair. They are also a terrific source of zinc, as are cashews, pecans, and almonds. A zinc deficiency can lead to hair shedding, so make sure nuts are a regular on your healthy hair menu.

Poultry

Chickens and turkeys may have feathers, but the high-quality protein they provide will help give you the healthy hair you crave.

Whole Grains

Sink your teeth into hearty whole grains, including whole-wheat bread and fortified whole-grain breakfast cereals, for a hair-healthy dose of zinc, iron, and B vitamins.A whole-grain snack can also be a great go-to food when your energy is zapped halfway through the afternoon, and you’ve still got hours to go before dinner.

 Oysters

The key to their love and hair-boosting abilities is zinc — a powerful antioxidant. If oysters don’t make a regular appearance on your dinner plate, don’t despair. In addition to getting it from whole grains and nuts, you can also get zinc from beef and lamb.

Low-Fat Dairy Products

Low-fat dairy products like skim milk and yogurt are great sources of calcium, an important mineral for hair growth. They also contain whey and casein, two high-quality protein sources.

 Carrots

Carrots are an excellent source of vitamin A, which promotes a healthy scalp along with good vision. Since a healthy scalp is essential for a shiny, well-conditioned head of hair, you’d be wise to include carrots in your diet as snacks or toppings on your salad.